16 yrs, 10 mths ago

UVA, UVB – whats the difference?

Hi everyone,

Recently I have become obsessed with suncare, but I am confused, I understand that there is a difference between UVA rays and UVB rays, but I’m not sure if most SPF30 products protect against BOTH UVA and UVB? Do they or do they only protect against one?

Hope that makes sense!
Ali

5 comments 32 voices

Replies

  • 9 yrs, 5 mths ago

    Most products should label which one they protect against and it`s important to find one that does both. I suggest neutrogena`s ultra sheer because it feels light on the face and I use it as a moisturiser in summer.

  • 9 yrs, 5 mths ago

    Thanks for spelling it out so simply ladies.
    I was on smartskincare.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=4719&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=
    Ascorbyl Palmitate dangerous for daytime use? It is an excerpt from Mayo Clinic
    It is coming to the point when I am seriously wondering whether it is safer to make my own – any thoughts?

  • 16 yrs, 10 mths ago

    THanks for telling me what is the difference

  • 16 yrs, 10 mths ago

    Finally answered haha. Though watch out for UBC.

  • 16 yrs, 10 mths ago

    Hi,
    Not all sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB – you need to find one that is labeled `broad spectrum` (most these days are) UVA rays penetrate deep into your skin (which are the rays that cause wrinkles and age your skin), UVB rays don`t penetrate as deep but are responsible for sunburn – these rays are also the main culprits in causing skin cancer as they stimulate the cells that produce melanin (which give you a tan) So it is really important to use a high factor SPF and Broad Spectrum sunscreen every day. The SPF (sun protection factor) only indicates how many times your skins natural defence the sunscreen is – ie, SPF 20 provides 20 x the protection from the sun then your skin alone, but for it to protect you from both UVA and UVB it needs to be labeled broad spectrum. Hope this helps.

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